Texas Marine Mammal Stranding Network

FOR STRANDING EMERGENCIES CALL 1-800-9-MAMMALDedicated to the conservation of marine mammals through rescue and rehabilitation, research and education.

Cetacean Response Protocol -
1(800)9-MAMMAL

Reports of marine mammal strandings from across
the globe are on the increase. These dolphins, whales,
manatees, sea lions and other marine mammals often end up on beaches
and in shallow water. This is called a
stranding. You can help save these animals by following these first
aid tips.

Call the local stranding network (In Texas
call 1-800-9-MAMMAL) or call local police with the location of
the stranding, even if the animal is dead. Valuable research
about these animals and our environment can be gained.

DO NOT return the animal to the sea.
They are there for a reason, usually sick or injured.
Keep people and pets away from the animal. Only one or two
people are needed until expert help arrives. Do not leave the
animal; they need comfort and cannot keep themselves upright.

Relieve pressure on fins by digging holes
under them. To relieve pressure on lungs you can dig a pit under
the mammal and fill the pit with water.

Keep the animal cool and wet by splashing
water on the skin. Avoid getting water in the blowhole.

Apply wet towels or T-shirts and
provide a shade if possible using tarps or towels. Keep the
blowhole free of obstruction and take care not to cover the
dorsal fin, flippers or tail.

Apply sunscreens or zinc oxide, NOT suntan
oil. The dolphin's skin is very sensitive and can burn severely.
Apply ice packs to the dorsal fin, pectoral flippers, or flukes
to keep the animal from overheating, but do not let the ice
contact the skin directly.

If the animal is in the surf, support it
upright. Keep water out of the blowhole. If possible, carefully
move mammal into shallow water but keep it in the water.

Be careful around the powerful tail and
mouth.

Following these tips can keep the animal
alive and reduce its stress until help arrives. After it is
recovered, the local stranding network takes charge of feeding
and nursing the mammal back to health.

Volunteers are needed to watch dolphins
during their recovery 24 hours a day and food, medicines and other
supplies can cost up to $400 a day. If you can volunteer to help or
support our efforts please visit our
Volunteer
Page.